Independence Day in Chad

A national paid holiday

Chad’s 1997 decree names August 11 the “Anniversary of the Proclamation of Independence” and national holiday. It classifies the date as a holiday that is non-working and paid throughout the country. The decree also says the day off must not reduce monthly, twice-monthly or weekly salaries.[1]

The decree addresses workers paid by the hour, day or output: when the holiday prevents work, they are entitled to compensation equal to the wages lost. If they work on the holiday, they receive their normal pay for the work plus an equal amount as an additional allowance.[1]

If August 11 falls on a Sunday, the following Monday is also a paid, non-working holiday under the decree.[1]

The independence it commemorates

On August 11, 1960, Chad’s independence from France was proclaimed. The United States’ Office of the Historian records that it recognized the Republic of Chad on that date, in a message to Prime Minister Tombalbaye. The anniversary therefore marks the country’s emergence as an independent republic.[2]

The date has both a historical and a civic meaning in Chad: the decree designates it as the national holiday, while the state’s official account describes it as an occasion to reaffirm national sovereignty.[1][3]

Public ceremonies

A record in the Chadian Presidency’s official video archive describes an Independence anniversary celebration featuring a military parade and a presidential speech.[3]

A recorded national Independence anniversary celebration in the Presidency’s video archive included a military parade and presidential speech.[3]

What to expect as a visitor

Because the holiday is legally non-working and paid nationwide, workers may have the day off, subject to the decree’s rules for people required to work. Travelers should check directly with a particular office, bank, shop or transport provider before making plans.[1]